Cannabis edibles have caused a sensation in the world of wellness and recreation, offering a delicious and discreet way to enjoy cannabis without the need to smoke. Because edibles are different from other forms of consuming marijuana, there are some things you should know to ensure a fun and positive experience. Let’s explore what new users need to know before trying cannabis-infused foods.

What Are Edibles?

Edibles are food and drink products infused with cannabis extracts, such as THC (the psychoactive component) or CBD (the non-psychoactive component). They come in various forms, from gummies, chocolates, and cookies to beverages, mints, savory snacks, and even pumpkin pies! For many, edibles provide a smoke-free and tasty alternative to traditional cannabis consumption methods. Even if you’re a seasoned cannabis smoker, you’ll find that edibles hit differently than other ways of consuming cannabis. 

Why Are Edibles All the Rage? 

Edibles are all the rage and there are good reasons! First, it is a delicious and fun way to consume cannabis with endless options. From fruity gummies to rich chocolates, there’s something for every palate. Plus, edibles are very discreet. making them perfect for social settings or on-the-go use. Another reason is that users like the long-lasting effects of edibles. As more people discover their benefits and the ever-growing variety of options available, it’s no wonder edibles have become a favorite in the cannabis community!

Start Low, Go Slow: The Golden Rule of Edibles

One of the most important things to remember as a new user is the mantra: start low, go slow. The standard dose for beginners is typically 5 milligrams (mg) of THC. Some dispensaries, including Hippo Cannabis, even offer edibles with 2.5 mg doses to help you ease into the experience. Taking too much too soon can lead to an overwhelming high. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you gauge your starting dose:

• Microdose (1-2.5 mg THC): Provides subtle, relaxing effects. Great for first-timers.
• Low dose (2.5-5 mg THC): Offers mild psychoactive effects and can be ideal for beginners.
• Standard dose (10 mg THC): Common for those with some experience, but can be too intense for newbies.
• High dose (20 mg + THC): Recommended only for experienced users who are familiar with their tolerance.

Patience Is Your Friend

It’s easy to get impatient when you’re waiting for that cookie to kick in. But trust us, it’s worth the wait. One of the most common mistakes new users make is eating more when they don’t feel the effects right away. Since edibles take longer to kick in, consuming additional doses too soon can lead to a much stronger high than anticipated. 

If you’ve taken a dose and don’t feel anything after an hour, resist the temptation to double up. It’s best to wait at least 2 hours before considering another small dose. Remember, you can always take more, but you can’t take less once it’s in your system.

Edibles vs. Smoking: What’s the Difference?

One of the biggest differences between edibles and smoking cannabis is how the body processes THC. When you smoke or vape, THC enters your bloodstream through your lungs, providing almost immediate effects. Edibles, on the other hand, must pass through your digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream, which takes longer but results in a different kind of high.

Because of this slower process, edibles tend to have a delayed onset of effects, typically between 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. The effects can also last much longer, ranging from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dose and the individual’s metabolism. This is why patience is key when trying edibles! 

Know Your Tolerance and Environment

Your tolerance to THC is influenced by various factors, including your metabolism, body weight, and prior experience with cannabis. If you’re completely new to cannabis, you might be more sensitive to THC, so start with the lowest dose possible. On the flip side, if you’ve dabbled in smoking or vaping before, you may have some tolerance, but edibles are still a different ballgame.

Choosing the right environment is also crucial, especially for your first time. Be in a comfortable, familiar setting where you feel safe and relaxed. Surround yourself with people you trust, or enjoy some solo chill time if that’s more your vibe. 

When buying edibles, always check the packaging to understand what’s inside. Whether you’re looking for a buzz, a calm evening, or just a tasty treat, knowing the THC and CBD content will help guide your choice.

Hydration and Snacks: The Unsung Heroes

Edibles can cause dry mouth (also called “cottonmouth”), so it’s a good idea to keep water or another beverage handy. Having snacks on hand is also a good call since often edibles bring on a case of the munchies!

What to Do If You’ve Had Too Much

If you accidentally consume too much, don’t panic. Here are some tips to help you come down:

• Stay calm: Find a quiet, comfortable place to relax. Breathe slowly and remind yourself that the feeling will pass.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water or a soothing tea like lavender or chamomile.
• Eat something: A light snack can help absorb some of the THC.
• Distract yourself: Watch a funny show, listen to music, or do something you enjoy to take your mind off the effects.
• Use CBD: Taking CBD can counteract the psychoactive effects of THC and help mellow things out.

Ask the Experts

Navigating the world of edibles can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone! At Hippo Cannabis, our knowledgeable budtenders are here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect product. Whether you’re a curious first-timer or looking to try something new, we’re happy to guide you every step of the way.

Trying edibles for the first time should be an enjoyable and enlightening experience. By starting low, going slow, and exercising patience, you’re setting yourself up for a positive and controlled journey that can leave you feeling relaxed, euphoric, and in tune with yourself. The right dosage, setting, and mindset are keys to unlocking a fun, memorable, and safe edible experience. Whether you’re watching your favorite show, diving into a creative project, or simply enjoying the vibe, it’s all about creating an experience that feels just right for you.